Experimental and Theoretical Studies on the Vibration Serviceability of Composite HCS Floors with RC Topping

Composite hollow–core slab floor with reinforced concrete topping (i.e. CHFT) is relatively new, which can be applied to various long-span structures. However, these systems are typically lightweight and exhibit low damping, posing potential serviceability concerns related to human vibrations. This paper presents a comprehensive vibration test on a 9 m-long CHFT system. Natural frequencies, damping ratios, and mode shapes of the floor system were obtained through modal tests. The peak acceleration, root–mean–square acceleration, maximum transient vibration value, and perception factor of the floor under heel-drop excitation were obtained through the perceived vibration test and were checked against the available design codes and standards. Sensitivity studies using the finite element method were made to investigate the vibration performance of the CHFT system. Analytical formulas for the fundamental frequency and peak acceleration were derived, which are therefore suggested for practical use. Additionally, an approach for evaluating the vibration serviceability of CHFTs is described.